Restrict is a privacy feature on Facebook Messenger that enables users to restrict their interactions with other users. When you restrict someone on Messenger, youre putting them on a restricted list, which limits their ability to contact you. They can still send you messages, but they will go straight to your "Message Requests" folder, and you wont receive notifications. You cant send a message or call the person either. The "Restrict" button hides the new chats completely and also hides "Active status" from both parties. If someone restricts you on Messenger, you wont view your chats with them, and if you send them a notification, theyll miss it. Messenger doesnt send you a notification when someone restricts you. To unrestrict someone on Messenger, you need to go to the "Restricted accounts" section in the Messenger app, select the contact name you wish to remove from "Restricted accounts," and confirm the changes by tapping "UNRESTRICT".